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Benson exits early, likely headed to DL

Benson exits early, likely headed to DL

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DENVER -- Kris Benson was forced to leave his start against the Rockies on Wednesday three batters into the third inning with right shoulder soreness and it looks like the veteran is on his way to the disabled list.

The D-backs will likely call up a reliever from Triple-A Reno in time for Thursday afternoon's game against the Cubs in Chicago.

The 35-year-old Benson, who was making his third start of the year for the D-backs, complained of the soreness before the game and received treatment on it just before coming out.

Benson had allowed one run through the game's first two innings before allowing back-to-back singles to lead off the third. Benson then walked Todd Helton on four pitches, prompting pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre Jr. to visit the mound.

After the two talked for a bit, D-backs manager A.J. Hinch came out along with a trainer, and after another short discussion, Benson was removed. Leo Rosales came in from the bullpen.

Benson was given a 6-0 lead after the top of the first inning. All three of the runners he left on base in the third came around to score as the Rockies scored six runs and took a 7-6 lead in the inning. Arizona won, 12-11, in 10 innings.

Benson had rotator cuff surgery in 2007 and did not pitch in the big leagues that year or in 2008. Last season, he was 1-1 with an 8.46 ERA in eight games (two starts) for the Rangers. The D-backs signed him to a Minor League contract on March 17.